CommandF

CommandF is a widely used keyboard shortcut on macOS that activates the Find function within the active window or document. The shortcut binds the Command key with the F key and is supported by most macOS applications, including web browsers, word processors, code editors, and PDF readers. It serves as the macOS counterpart to Ctrl+F on Windows and Linux.

When invoked, a search field or find bar opens, prompting the user to enter a search string. The application then highlights matches in the current view and provides navigation controls to jump to the next or previous occurrence. Depending on the program, additional options may include case sensitivity, whole word matching, and the use of regular expressions.

Scope and variations: In browsers, Find on Page searches the current page; in editors or documents, it searches the active document or pane. Some apps distinguish between finding within the current document and finding within a broader scope such as a project or site. In some environments, Command+F is complemented by Command+Shift+F for broader searches like Find in Files.

Accessibility and usability: The Find function is typically announced by screen readers and focuses keyboard navigation on the search field, allowing quick access for users with visual impairments. On some systems, Esc closes the find bar, while in others pressing Escape returns to the document.

See also: keyboard shortcuts, text search, find and replace.